Manufacturing Engineer – Trailer Manufacturing

Position Summary

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Manufacturing Engineer to support and improve production operations within a steel trailer manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for developing efficient manufacturing processes, creating and maintaining production routings, designing fixtures and tooling, supporting continuous improvement initiatives, and collaborating across departments to improve quality, safety, and productivity.

The ideal candidate will have strong experience with fabrication and welding processes, hands-on problem-solving abilities, and proficiency in SolidWorks and manufacturing documentation.

Key Responsibilities

Manufacturing Process Development

• Develop, implement, and improve manufacturing processes for trailer production operations including welding, fabrication, assembly, paint, and final assembly.
• Create and maintain production routings, work instructions, and standard operating procedures.
• Analyze workflow, labor utilization, and production layouts to improve efficiency and reduce waste.
• Support new product launches from prototype through full production implementation.
• Work closely with production teams to troubleshoot manufacturing issues and implement corrective actions.

Fixture & Tooling Design

• Design welding fixtures, assembly fixtures, jigs, and tooling using SolidWorks.
• Improve existing tooling and fixturing to enhance repeatability, safety, and production throughput.
• Coordinate fabrication and implementation of fixtures with internal teams or outside vendors.
• Ensure fixtures are ergonomic, durable, and optimized for production requirements.

Continuous Improvement

• Lead and support process improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, productivity, and cost reduction.
• Identify bottlenecks and recommend process changes to improve cycle times and reduce rework.
• Utilize lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Participate in root cause analysis and corrective action activities.

Production Support

• Provide daily engineering support to manufacturing operations.
• Collaborate with Quality, Production, Purchasing, and Design Engineering teams.
• Review engineering drawings and bills of materials for manufacturability.
• Assist with equipment selection, plant layout improvements, and capital projects.
• Support ERP system accuracy related to routings, labor standards, and manufacturing data.

Documentation & Standards

• Maintain accurate engineering records, drawings, process documentation, and revision controls.
• Ensure compliance with company quality and safety standards.
• Develop labor standards and manufacturing metrics where applicable.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field preferred.
• 3+ years of manufacturing engineering experience in fabrication, welding, or heavy equipment manufacturing preferred.
• Experience in trailer manufacturing, metal fabrication, or related industries strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks required.
• Experience designing fixtures, tooling, and manufacturing aids.
• Knowledge of welding, machining, fabrication, and assembly processes.
• Experience creating routings, work instructions, and manufacturing documentation.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing and continuous improvement principles.
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills.
• ERP/MRP system experience preferred.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Preferred Skills

• Understanding of robotic welding and automation processes.
• Knowledge of GD&T and print interpretation.
• Experience with time studies and labor analysis.
• Project management and cross-functional coordination experience.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in both office and manufacturing floor environments.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to wear required PPE in production areas.

Work Environment

This position operates in a manufacturing facility producing steel trailers and related products. Exposure to welding operations, fabrication equipment, noise, dust, and varying temperatures is expected. Located in Huron SD.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• 401(k) with company match
• Opportunities for advancement and professional development